A Gym Thing

A GYM THING
by Tom Vallen

“After all if you’re in shape people notice you, and being ignored is the last thing you want to happen”

Driven by a daily quest for perfection, Will takes us on a fast paced, sweaty, physical exploration of how the gym has strengthened and weakened his relationships, his physique and ultimately his life. A complex love story from a gym addict’s point of view, set within a 60 minute workout, A Gym Thing tackles body image and bigorexia (Body Dysmorphic Disorder), leaving those who don’t visit the gym with a greater understanding of ‘why we do what we do’.

A Gym Thing transferred to London after an exhilarating run at the Pleasance Courtyard, 2017 Edinburgh Festival.

The gym has taken our society by storm. It’s a lifestyle and an imperative part of many peoples daily routines. What isn’t so widely publicised are some of the negative effects. A Gym Thing shines a much needed spotlight on the world of Bigorexia (reverse anorexia), Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD). BDD affects men and women equally, quality of life is extremely poor and the suicide rates are amongst the highest in all of the mental disorders.

'Accomplished debut play - Four Stars' The Stage

'A Gym Thing never hammers its message home, instead making its point with brutal elegance.' The Scotsman